Wow, I almost feel like I can breathe, but not quite yet. I've been waiting (albeit not so patiently) to hear about Leo, who is in transit to his new home.

Today the 12th puppy went out into the world. Bittersweet as always but, different this time because we know him so well.

It's an answer to prayer to know he's going to be the apple of their eyes and I'm sure the best dog they've ever known. For me, hands down, Bergamasco, the dog of a lifetime.

Yay Bergamasco!

A beautiful fall day and we want to offer toys and run in the yard--except for Chris who gives up too soon!

Really, he had an appointment and couldn't stay, but we're glad he came here in the middle of the day because everybody is so happy to PLAY!

It really isn't any different to be inside during the summer heat in Texas than it is to be inside during a wintry blizzard or cold below zero in the North. Through the window, it just looks like you would enjoy being out there...until you open the door!
There is plenty of space inside and enough patience to go around most of the time. Towards the afternoon you can start to feel the excitement mounting up because they are ready to run and play for all they are worth. We are catching a lot more sunsets and sunrises these days.

I have heard breeders say that their dogs were socialized with the parents and other pets. I thought "Oh, that's good..." but I had no idea what that really meant. As a pet parent I did the research to help integrate my newbie into the mix. I never gave their previous experiences a lot of thought. After seeing it with my own eyes--I won't soon forget what an eye-opening time it's been for me to see the pups, parents, our other pets all adjusting and finding their places.
I hear from our new puppy parents that these little ones have done SO WELL and submitted to the other dogs in their new families. Bosco really knows what she's doing! I never seem to run out of amazement for the Bergamasco Breed!

Once upon a time I spent a rainy day with just Bosco. I can barely remember what that is like. This is Bosco on the day we picked her out from her 9 litter mates in CA. Other people are experiencing that same joy now -- because of the pups. I have to keep reminding myself this is why we did this. NOT so we could keep them and be sad when they go.
It is sad because we will miss them, but more it is joy for others.